According to the FBI's National Crime Information Center, one vehicle is stolen about every 25.5 seconds in the U.S., totaling over a million stolen vehicles and billions of dollars in losses each year.
Despite the high cost of vehicle theft, many drivers do not prepare in advance. A defeatist attitude — believing theft is inevitable — can reduce the use of practical protections and increase the chance of loss.
The Wiser Drivers Wise Up project, led by the Council of Better Business Bureaus, the Insurance Information Institute, and the National Insurance Crime Bureau, aims to correct misconceptions and teach effective prevention and recovery steps.
Five common auto-theft myths
- Older vehicles aren't targeted by thieves. Statistics show older models are frequently stolen, and some older cars are targeted because they lack modern immobilizers and electronic protections.
- The majority of vehicle thefts occur in unprotected areas. Many thefts happen from a victim's home or driveway, so parking in a perceived "safe" spot does not guarantee protection.
- Anti-theft devices aren't hard to install. Proper installation of alarms and immobilizers usually requires professional expertise; choose a reputable installer and ask for certification and a written warranty.
- The police usually find stolen vehicles. Only about half of stolen vehicles are recovered, and the odds of recovery fall quickly after the first few days following a theft.
- Insurance companies always provide victims with a rental car. Theft coverage does not always include a rental replacement, so review your policy to learn what is and isn't provided.
After a theft, consider risks such as identity-related fraud and data exposure; for guidance on those issues, see Vehicle Theft and Identity Theft in the U.S..
Vehicle owners should not assume theft is unavoidable. Do an annual review of your auto policy to confirm required coverages and optional features like rental reimbursement and roadside assistance, and review ways to lower costs by reading 10 Ways to Save on Auto Insurance. If you want to update or compare options, talk to your agent.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do immediately after my vehicle is stolen?
Report the theft to local police and your insurer right away, and provide the vehicle identification number, keys, and any distinguishing details to help with recovery.
Does comprehensive auto insurance always cover theft?
Theft is commonly covered under comprehensive insurance, but coverages and limits vary, so check your policy for specifics and any deductibles that apply.
Are steering wheel locks or immobilizers effective?
Physical locks and electronic immobilizers can deter casual thieves and delay theft, increasing the chance a thief will move on to an easier target.
How can I reduce my risk of becoming a victim?
Park in well-lit areas, lock doors, remove valuables, use visible and hidden anti-theft devices, and keep a record of your vehicle's VIN and photos.